Most ran as quickly as they could into the surf, while others de-robed from onesies and warm winter woollies to take a stroll on the sands before dipping into the freezing cold waters of the North Sea.

Chilly stuff: The event was described at the "ultimate ice bucket challenge" (Image: PA/Owen Humphreys)

The dippy dippers described it as an 'exhilarating' experience, and are likely to be back for more next year.

The naked dawn run is the brainchild of Jax Higginson, who was inspired when she took part in a similar event in Gower, Wales in 2011.

"Exhilarating": Dippers pledged to do it all again next year (Image: Newcastle Chronicle)

Jax, 37, a paramedic from Sunderland, said: "What an incredible release I experienced. So much energy. So much beauty. So much freedom.

"And there are no other people on this entire planet that I would rather have shared that with!"

Surf's up: Twins Laura and Nicola Morland, 30, took part in the dip (Image: PA/Owen Humphreys)